The Nikon ZR uses a 24.5MP full-frame partially stacked CMOS sensor, the same sensor found in the Nikon Z6 III.
Since Nikon acquired RED Digital Cinema in March 2024, many filmmakers were waiting to see what this merger would produce. Today, Nikon has finally unveiled the Nikon ZR, a compact full-frame mirrorless camera built with RED’s cinema technology. The camera offers advanced video features, RED color science, internal 32-bit float audio, and a compact body designed for filmmakers. It will start shipping in October 2025 for €2,349 (body only).
The Nikon ZR uses a 24.5MP full-frame partially stacked CMOS sensor, the same sensor found in the Nikon Z6 III. Nikon says the sensor provides fast readout speeds, wide dynamic range, and reduced rolling shutter distortion.
The camera has a dual base ISO of 800 and 6400 in Log3G10, giving filmmakers over 15 stops of dynamic range. It also includes 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), making it suitable for handheld shooting.
The camera includes intelligent subject detection, tracking autofocus, and customizable AF speeds. This helps filmmakers achieve smooth and repeatable focus transitions in different shooting environments.
One of the biggest highlights is the support for internal raw recording. The Nikon ZR can record in:
Resolutions and frame rates include:
The ZR also offers four gamma curves: Log3G10, N-Log, SDR, and HLG.
The camera uses RED color science, offering four creative video modes and nine RED presets. This ensures cinematic color output, making the ZR a strong choice for filmmakers who want RED-quality images in a smaller, more affordable package.
The Nikon ZR is the first full-frame mirrorless camera with internal 32-bit float audio recording. This means users can record audio without worrying about clipping or adjusting gain, as levels can be fixed in post-production.
The ZR includes three internal microphones with a 72dB signal-to-noise ratio and five pickup patterns. It also supports OZO audio directivity, attenuator, frequency response adjustment, and wind noise reduction.
Nikon also introduced the ME-D10 digital shotgun microphone. It connects directly via the hot shoe without cables and supports 32-bit float audio. It will cost €299.
The Nikon ZR is very compact, measuring 134 x 80.5 x 49mm and weighing only 630g (with battery and card). It is weather-sealed and designed with a new thermal management system for long recording sessions.
The body does not include an EVF. Instead, it comes with a 4-inch vari-angle touchscreen monitor with DCI-P3 color gamut support. Filmmakers can load up to 10 LUTs for monitoring during shoots.
The ZR includes:
The storage and connectivity options make it flexible for both professional and independent creators.
The camera will begin shipping at the end of October 2025.
The Nikon ZR marks a new era for Nikon and RED collaboration. With internal raw recording, RED color science, 32-bit float audio, and a compact body, it is designed to give independent filmmakers professional-level tools at an accessible price.
